Micro-scale opto-thermo-mechanical actuation in the dry adhesive regime

Abstract Realizing optical manipulation of microscopic objects is crucial in the research fields life science, condensed matter physics, and physical chemistry. In non-liquid environments, this task commonly regarded as difficult due to strong adhesive surface force (~µN) attached solid interfaces that makes tiny driven (~pN) insignificant. Here, by recognizing interaction mechanism between friction force—the parallel component on a contact surface—and thermoelastic waves induced pulsed absorption, we establish general principle enabling actuation micro-objects dry frictional surfaces based opto-thermo-mechanical effects. Theoretically, predict nanosecond absorption with mW-scale peak power sufficient tame µN-scale force. Experimentally, demonstrate two-dimensional spiral motion gold plates micro-fibers laser pulses, reveal rules control. Our results pave way for future development micro-scale actuators environments.